


























w c 



^ 






* ^ 









V/ 















< O 

4? «* 



^ 



V 









^ 















^/ V^V ^^-/ \^\/ %^ 




i0 <,. 



<j> * O H ,-$ 

• • , "^ 1 > 



V i» 















,0 






-:- : . 



O v 

^ IS 









4 o 



■-. *b? :i 



*> 






^ 0^ ,° <*2fnyi ". "o V 






> ^ "IK 

^ aP .\wW* 



0' 







^0^ 






%<. AT * j^,f/k" •&« & * SUSS * rJ> ^ V 



0° \> ' 










r.'J 



V 







■a. 



^°^ 






IC 8817 






Bureau of Mines Information Circular/1980 



Minerals Health and Safety 

In-House Research, Development, 

and Demonstration In Fiscal Year 1980 



By Staff, Division of Minerals Health 
and Safety Technology 



UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR 



•I 

Information Circular 8817 

Minerals Health and Safety 
In-House Research, Development, 
and Demonstration In Fiscal Year 1980 



By Staff, Division of Minerals Health 
and Safety Technology 




UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR 

Cecil D. Andrus, Secretary 

BUREAU OF MINES 

Lindsay D. Norman, Acting Director 




"W'frft/fft 




This publication has been cataloged as follows: 



United States. Bureau of Mines. 


Division 


of 


Minerals 


Health and Safety Techno 


logy. 








Minerals health and safety 


in-house 


research, 


development, 


and demonstration in fiscal year 


1980. 








(Information circular - U.S. Bureau of Mine-s ; 8817) 






Supt. of Docs, no.: I 28.27:881" 


r u 








1. Mine safety— United States. 


I. Title. 


II. Series: 


United States. 


Bureau of Mines. Information circul 


ar ; 8817. 








TN295.U4 622s [622'.8'0973] 


80-607006 







CONTENTS 

Page 

Abstract 1 

Introduction 1 

Program Outline 2 

Health 3 

Respirable Dust 3 

Fragmentation control 3 

Control of generated dust 3 

Analytical techniques and equipment 4 

Radiation hazards 4 

Control of radiation hazards 5 

Radiation instrumentation and measurement 5 

Test facilities 6 

Noise control 6 

Industrial hygiene 7 

Toxic gases and materials 7 

Diesels 8 

Ventilation 9 

Safety 9 

Fire and explosion prevention 9 

Ignition research 9 

Flame propagation 10 

Fire detection and alarms 11 

Suppression and extinguishment 12 

Methane control 13 

Fundamental factors 14 

Control in advance of mining 14 

Control during mining 15 

Ground control 16 

Premining investigations 16 

Selection of mining systems and mine opening design. 18 

Roof support systems 21 

Safe support installation and protection at the face 23 

Hazard detection and monitoring systems 24 

Mining and minerals processing waste stability 26 

Industrial hazards 27 

Human factors 28 

Electrical 28 

Equipment 29 

Illumination 29 

Nonemergency communications 30 

Haulage and materials handling 30 

Post-disaster 31 

Survival 31 

Communications 31 

Explosives 31 

Blasting agents and other hazardous chemicals 32 

Detonation phenomena 33 

Systems engineering 33 

Test facilities 33 



MINERALS HEALTH AND SAFETY IN-HOUSE RESEARCH, DEVELOPMENT, 
AND DEMONSTRATION IN FISCAL YEAR 1980 

by 

Staff, Division of Minerals Health and Safety Technology 



ABSTRACT 



This publication summarizes, for all interested parties, the research, 
development, and demonstration in-house projects programed by the Bureau 
of Mines for fiscal year 1980 (October 1, 1979 - September 30, 1980) 
under its Minerals Health and Safety Research program. The objective of 
these projects is to provide an ordered and sequenced series of advances 
toward the Bureau's overall goal of providing the system technology 
required to create a healthier and safer working environment for the 
Nation's mining and minerals processing workers. 



INTRODUCTION 



The Bureau of Mines conducts a balanced, continuing in-house research 
and development program to accelerate systematic improvements in health 
and safety conditions in U.S. mines. This paper outlines the Bureau's 
present in-house effort to all interested parties; in particular, 
potential contractors can refer to it when submitting USP's (unsolicited 
proposals) , thus avoiding proposing research that duplicates work being 
performed by the Bureau. 



The projects presented were planned at the beginning of the fiscal 
year and are subject to change based on emerging priorities and availa- 
bility of funds. A companion publication, Information Circular 8816, 
lists contract projects. 



PROGRAM OUTLINE 



The objective of the Minerals Health and Safety Research program is 
to protect the health and safety of mining and minerals processing 
workers while insuring that newly developed technology incorporates 
health and safety criteria. In achieving this objective, four fundamental 
and complementary requirements must be considered by the research program, 
as follows: 

1. Contributing to the viability of a basic industry. 

2. Sustaining productivity. 

3. Allowing for a return on capital investment. 

4. Providing material and energy to the public 

Since mining and minerals processing involve a highly integrated 
and interrelated set of functions, the program has been divided into a 
set of interrelated subprograms, each with goals that will provide 
systems technology solutions to the problems within the framework of 
these fundamental requirements. The Minerals Health and Safety Research 
program is divided into 12 subprogram areas as shown: 



Health 
Respirable dust 
Radiation hazards 
Noise control 
Industrial hygiene 
Ventilation 



Safety 
Fires and explosion prevention 
Methane control 
Ground control 
Industrial hazards 
Post-disaster 
Explosives 
Systems engineering 



The objectives of these subprograms are described in the following 
pages, followed by the planned projects and their corresponding descriptions 
The aggregate value of the planned in-house projects is approximately 
$14 million. 



HEALTH 
Respirable Dust 



Program Objectives : To develop procedures for controlling the respirable 
mine dusts that still constitute the severest health problem facing the 
mining industries. To develop and/or improve techniques and equipment to 
prevent formation of hazardous dust concentrations, and to protect miners 
against dusty atmospheres. 



Fragmentation Control 

1. Reduction of Airborne Coal Dust and Increased Machine Efficiency 

Objective : Develop background information in support of contract 
research related to reduction of primary dust generation at the bit/coal 
interface during cutting. Conduct a series of tests designed to determine 
the effects of water lubricity at the bit/coal interface on primary dust 
generation and cutting forces. Define abrasive wear and impact failure for 
coal cutting bits, and relate wear and bit failure to dust generation. 

Control of Generated Dust 

2. Control of Respirable Dust by Water Infusion and Other Means of 
Preconditioning 

Objective : Conduct underground evaluations to determine the 
effectiveness of water infusion for respirable dust control. Particular 
attention will be given to longwall mining operations in different coal 
seams. Work will also include evaluation of the physical properties of 
the coalbed relating to fracture permeability, and porosity. 

3. Dus-t Suppression for Haulage 

Objective : Continue to determine the effectiveness of various 
wetting agents for different types of coals obtained from seams throughout 
the country. The wetting effectiveness of approximately 100 surfactants 
will be determined for 100 different coal samples obtained from seams 
throughout the country. The information and data obtained from the 
proposed program will result in more effective and economical use of 
wetting agents in reducing respirable dust. 



4 . Development of Dust Control Technology for Coal Mines 

Obj ective : Conduct preliminary studies of concepts for 
improvements in dust control technology for coal mines. Investigate 
the feasibility of ventilating the face by directing the air discharge 
from a machine-mounted fan. Investigate the use of machine-mounted 
scrubber techniques for dust control on longwall faces by scale modeling. 
Develop and evaluate improved dust control techniques in underground coal 
mines based on shrouded high pressure sprays. 



5. Dust Control Technology for Noncoal Mines 

Objective : Conduct preliminary studies leading to development of 
improved dust control technology for noncoal mines and mineral processing 
mills. Evaluate the dust control needs of the minerals industry through 
field visits to various mine and mill sites. 



6. Survey of Dust Control Problems 

Objective : Initiate the compilation of respirable dust sources and 
their control problems for mining and minerals processing operations. 
Assess the extent of controls in use through field surveys of these 
operations. 



Analytical Techniques and Equipment 

7 . Respirable Dust Measurement Instrumentation Evaluation 

Objective : Continue evaluating dust samples and monitors 
developed by Bureau contractors and others in the laboratory and 
in mines. Specific instruments to be evaluated include the machine- 
mounted dust monitors using beta-attenuation, the improved light-scattering 
dust monitors, and various cascade impactors. 

Radiation Hazards 



Program Objectives : To develop and provide new and improved measure- 
ment instrumentation and control technology for protection of miners from 
exposure to radon and radon daughters and other nuclear radiation hazards 
in uranium mines. 



Control of Radiation Hazards 

1. Radon Control Technology- 
Objective : Continue to develop radon control technology for use in 

uranium and other mines by investigating the engineering feasibility and 
cost effectiveness of using sealants, bulkheads, pressure control, tailings 
backfill, and moisture control in preventing or reducing radon leakage into 
the fresh airways. These studies will be exploratory in nature. Evaluations 
of radon control techniques will be conducted primarily in the laboratory 
with limited in-mine testing of the most promising methods for the purpose 
of developing sound engineering guidelines for future full-scale develop- 
ment, in-mine testing, and demonstration. 

2. Control of Radiation Hazards Through Air Cleaning 

Objective : Continue research on the use of air-cleaning techniques 
for removal of radon daughters from underground mine atmospheres. Determine 
efficiencies, filter life with regard to moisture and airborne particle 
size, and concentration and characteristics of the radioactive components 
of the filtered air. Provide necessary technical assistance to the 
contractor during development and testing phase of a prototype air- 
cleaning system. The results achieved to date will be documented in a report 
suitable for use by the mining and air-cleaning industry. 

Radiation Instrumentation and Measurement 

3. Electric Radon Daughter Personal Dosimeter 

Objective : Continue development of a small, solid-state instrument 
that will record the daily working level-hour (WL-HR) exposure of a man 
exposed to radon daughter contamination. Conduct laboratory and field 
testing of modified dosimeters. Provide technical support during the 
duration of field study of the electronic dosimeter. Review and analyze 
the field data and make necessary modifications based on results of 
filed testing. Continue investigation of new pumps in the laboratory 
and field. Investigate the feasibility of using a new hybrid radiation 
detector in lieu of current type and determine the research needs required 
to introduce such a detector into the current dosimeter system. 

4. Personal Exposure Instrumentation and Measurement Technology 

Objective : Continue laboratory and field studies on instrumentation 
for exposure measurements and methods of making exposure measurements 
related to the miner's exposure to nuclear radiation hazards, with emphasis 
on the measurement of radon daughter products. Areas to be covered 
include (a) personal dosimeters, (b) area monitors, (c) shift 
monitors, (d) long-lived radio-nuclides in mine air. Provide assistance 
during field testing of dosimeters to verify previously established 



accuracy of instruments under test. Continue with the ultimate 
objective of improving the accuracy and reliability of the current TL 
dosimeter system. Prepare a detailed report documenting the inhouse 
research on the TL dosimeter. 



5. Radiation Warning System for Uranium Mines 

Objective : Demonstrate in three different mines an automated 
radiation warning system that alerts mine personnel of excessively 
high concentrations of airborne radiation and, if necessary, to modify 
the warning system to improve its operation. Construct other sensors 
to monitor surface and auxilary fan operation airlock doors, and other 
environmental parameters. All existing Bureau technology shall be 
considered in development of these control sensors. 



Test Facilities 

6. Lease and Operate the Twilight Mine 

Objective : Continue to operate and maintain an underground uranium 
mine as a test facility to provide typical mine environmental conditions 
for research and development studies conducted by the Bureau of Mines, 
the Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) , other Government 
agencies, and outside contractors in the area of radiation hazards. 

Noise Control 



Program Objectives : To identify noise sources in underground and 
surface mines and in related mineral cleaning and preparation facilities, 
and to abate these noise sources sufficiently to meet Federal noise exposure 
standards. 



1. Assessment of Noise Control Techniques for Coal Mining Machinery 

Objective : Continue work on abatement of noise from pnuematic rock 
drills and drill jumbos through development of shielding and damping 
techniques for drill steel. Continue evaluation of quiet, preproduction 
stoper drill delivered under contract. Initiate work involving field 
evaluation on quieting the Jeffrey 100-L auger miner cutterhead. Emphasis 
will be placed on transferring the results of successful noise control 
research projects to MSHA and the mining industry. 



Industrial Hygiene 



Program Objectives : To identify and control the health hazards 
created in underground mines and in minerals processing plants by toxic 
gases and fumes, and by certain particulates produced by explosives and 
combustibles and by diesel engines. To develop new instrumentation for 
monitoring toxic components of the underground environment and evaluate 
commercially available instrumentation. To develop and/or refine ana- 
lytical techniques for characterizing and measuring toxic components, 
and to investigate methods for controlling the formation and accumulation 
of toxic products. 



Toxic Gases and Materials 

1. Toxic Fumes From Explosives 

Objective : Develop, improve, and apply methods of measuring toxic 
fumes produced by explosives used in underground mining. Evaluate 
different types of commercial mining explosives and new formulations 
designed to reduce toxic fumes. Establish relationship between the 
volumes of fumes produced under actual mining conditions and laboratory 
test equipment. In addition, establish procedures for measuring 
suspected toxic gases from explosives and blasting agents other than 
those toxic products currently being measured for the purpose of fume 
classification. Eventually, the research should lead to the perfection 
and semiautomation of mine air sampling procedures and the establishment 
of new standards for fume measurement, as well as new fume standards for 
underground mines. 



2. Development of Procedures and Equipment To Protect Welders From Fumes 
on Draglines and Stripping Shovels 

Objective : Develop procedures and equipment to protect welders from 
fumes on- draglines and stripping shovels during repair and maintenance 
operations. This project will investigate the methods and techniques used 
in welding as well as the equipment used to insure that the work areas 
inside the large shovel tubs and structures are free of welding fumes. 



3. Improved Instruments for Mine Gases and Fumes Found in Mineral Processing 
Plants 

Objective : Evaluate and verify the performance of commercially avail- 
able and contract-developed dosimeters for toxic and noxious gases found 
in the mine environment and in confined areas of minerals processing plants. 
A small colormetric dosimeter is under development to improve its readout 
efficiency. As required, evaluations of commercial devices will be under- 
taken. Investigate effects of temperature, relative humidity, and 
interferent gases on gas sampling and detection. 



4. Evaluation of Industrial Hygiene Instrumentation and Equipment 

Objective : Continue development and testing of small, simple, proto- 
type gas detector devices, systems, and exposure indicators for toxic gases. 
This work will include testing of commercially developed equipment as well 
as inhouse developments. The purpose is to evaluate the workplace environment 
through timely, meaningful measurement. Personal exposure meters will 
provide useful logs to document conditions over long periods of time. 
Demonstration devices developed under this program will be provided to 
industry and MSHA for field testing and evaluation. 



Diesels 

5. Control of Diesel Exhaust Contaminants 

Objective : Determine the effectiveness of absorbents, catalysts, and 
scrubbers in reducing levels of contaminant gases and particulates from 
diesel engine exhaust. Relate emission levels to ambient levels of 
toxicants in mines. Investigate both single and tandem controls to reduce 
the levels of particulates and other contaminants. Selected effective 
analytical methods for acrolein, sulfates, and other toxicants that are 
difficult to analyze. 



6. Development of Alarm Systems for Engines Operated Underground and 
In Confined Spaces 

Objective : Provide increased safety to the diesel vehicle operator 
through continuous monitoring of ambient C0_ levels onboard the vehicle 
by having a warning indication at moderate levels and an automatic vehicle 
shutdown if an unacceptable level is sustained. Field tests on about 
20 alarms from Beckman and/or Andros will continue under Bureau and MSHA 
supervision. 



7. Investigation of Emission Controls for Large Turbocharged Diesel 
Engines Operated Underground and in Confined Spaces 

Objectives : Determine the potentially feasible methods and hardware 
available and applicable for use as emission and temperature controls on 
turbocharged diesel engines. The work will continue to review all available 
literature and to contact experts in appropriate fields of the automotive 
industry, diesel engine manufacturing, mine equipment manufacturing, MSHA, 
and the Environmental Protection Agency to provide a basis for future 
research. The goal is to establish methods of operation and emission 
control hardware to insure the safe operation of diesels in underground 
mines and in confined areas found in minerals processing plants. 



Ventilation 



Program Objective ; To develop ventilation systems required to maintain 
a safe and healthful atmosphere conducive to efficient work output in 
noncoal mines. 



1. Development of Improved Ventilation Technology for Noncoal Mines 

Objective ; Assess the problems with insulation for cooling water 
transmission lines in hot noncoal mines. Conduct preliminary studies of 
the use of water power turbines to pump used cooling water from hot 
noncoal mines. Investigate the effectiveness of ventilation systems 
used in noncoal mines having large airways. 



Safety 
Fires and Explosion Prevention 



Program Objectives ; To reduce the potential for fires and explosions 
in mineral extraction and minerals processing operations; to minimize the 
danger to people on account of fires and explosions that do occur. 



Ignition Research 

1. Spontaneous Heating of Mine Combustibles 

Objective ; Investigate the CO formation and spontaneous heating 
hazard of U.S. coals and develop guidlines for identifying this hazard 
in the field. Extend spontaneous heating tests and desorption experiments 
to lower ranked Western coals to correlate their self-heating rates with 
oxidation and gas emission rates in air at various temperatures. Obtain 
similar data for other coals and mine combustibles of interest. Examine 
the surface properties of coals that are highly susceptible to self-heating, 

2. Bit Impact Ignition of Methane 

Objective ; Relate bit wear patterns for point attack bits to methane 
ignition for various impact speeds on inclusions. A scaled-down rotary 
head section will be used for impacting point attack bits on inclusions 
at various sumping rates and/or bit loads. The project will provide 
guidelines on wear and velocity on the incidence of methane ignitions. 



10 



3. Thermal Ignition of Coal Dust 

Objective : Construct and operate a furnace suitable for examining coal 
dust ignition temperatures, combustion characteristics, and the effect 
of extinguishing agents on these parameters. Determine furnace ignition 
temperatures as a function of coal dust concentration, coal volatility, 
and coal particle size. Measurements will include delay time to ignition, 
flame temperature, and flame product gas analysis. Examine single coal- 
particle reaction to determine the site of ignition and combustion. 



Flame Propagation 

4. Physical Description of a Coal Mine Explosion 

Objective : Continue investigation into the detailed machanisms of 
coal dust explosion intitiation, propagation, and suppression, including 
fluid dynamic phenomena, in single and double-entry mines. Develop 
sophisticated and rugged instruments to measure dynamic pressure, wind 
velocity, concentrations of gas and dust, and temperatures in full-scale 
explosions. Assistance will be provided for the general instrumentation 
of the Experimental Mine facility, as well as to the various projects 
using this facility. Design a new experimental mine facility in a remote 
location so that a wider range of explosions can be examined without 
disturbing residential neighbors. 

5. Flammability of Coal Mine Combustibles 

Objective : Develop improved laboratory-scale flammability tests to 
update MSHA Schedule test methods and evaluate flammability hazard of mine 
combustibles. Apply the conveyor belt flame spread test developed 
previously to brattice cloths, hoses, sealants, coatings, and other mine 
combustibles. Rate these materials for fire resistance. Develop a test 
method for determining the flash points of solid combustibles. Evaluate 
new or existing flammability test methods for reliability as required by 
MSHA. 

6. Flammability of Uniformly Dispersed Coal Dusts 

Objective : Determine the lean flammability limits (minimum explosion 
concentration) of dusts such as coal and oil shale dust. Included will 
be measurements of the effect of added inhibitor powders, coal volatility, 
particle size, ignition energy requirements, and optical opacity of the 
dispersed cloud. Measure the pressure history of the explosions, the 
residual oxygen concentrations, the flame and dust surface temperatures, 
the residual volatile content, and the shape and continuity of the 
combustion wave. Compare results obtained with data from the experimental 
mine and 6-foot gallery. Analyze and revaluate the enormous body of past 
literature in this area in the light of recent findings. 



11 



7. Flammability of Mine Fire Gas 

Objective : Measure the upper and lower flammability limits, in air 
mixtures of gases produced in mine fires,. Ignite mixtures of hydrogen, 
carbon monoxide, methane, and air in a 12-foot diameter sphere. Measure 
flame spread and the rate of pressure rise. Map lean flammable limits, 
approximate rich limits. 



8. Flame Propagation Into a Mine Gob Through Methane Drainage Holes 

Objective : Determine the conditions under which flame could pro- 
pagate into a mine through methane-emitting boreholes. Document demon- 
strations of flame propagation through boreholes. Determine the 
probability of lightning as an ignition source. Make recommendations 
for the design and placement of flame arrestors on boreholes. 



9 . Hazards of Fires and Explosions in Crude Oil Tunnel Driving Explorations 

Objectives : Determine the fire and explosion properties of crude oil 
in the presence of operating mining equipment and explosions. Define the 
flammability hazard of the vapor formed in oil mines. Determine the in- 
cendivity (ease of ignition) of this vapor. Determine whether there exists 
permissible explosives for use in the presence of this vapor. 



Fire Detection and Alarms 

10. Physical Modeling of Mine Timber Fires 

Objective : Develop scaling laws for full-scale mine timber fires 
from laboratory tunnel wood fire models. Design optimal methods for 
prevention and control of fires in horizontal and sloped roadways. 
Experiments will provide a quantitative understanding of relevant mine 
fire parameters and the development of optimal methods of controlling 
the spread of flame and fumes. Study fires supported by wood linings 
that simulate mine timber sets to test the validity of scaling concepts. 

11. Evaluate Detection Systems for Fires and Explosions 

Objective : Detect (sense) conditions that lead to fires or 
explosions. Evaluate and adapt current sensores to mine use. Develop 
and construct new detectors to explore and evaluate new methodologies. 
Study I-R radiation for development of detectors. 



12 



12. Rate of Float Dust Formation and Deposition in Operating Coal Mines 

Obj ective : Investigate rate of formation of float dust during 
various coal mining operations in operating coal mines. Determine 
formation rates for a variety of coal cutting operations such as 
ripper, borer, auger, and shearer continuous mining operations. 
Measure formation rates at transfer points and the rate of deposition 
of float dust in returns. 



Suppression and Extinguishment 

13. Mechanism of Methane Flame Suppression 

Objective : Determine the chemical and physical processes by which 
powdered extinguishing agents suppress flames and coal dust explosions. 
Construct a burner system for stabilizing flames containing coal dust 
and powdered extinguishing agents. Design, fabricate, and operate 
sampling systems for gaseous flame species and for dust samples. 

14. Sealed Mine Fires 

Objective : Develop guidelines for safe reopening of a mine following 
sealing after a fire. Carry out a series of large scale fire trials in 
a multiple-entry experimental mine to develop criteria. Study the effects 
of ventilation. Characterize the fire conditions. Evaluate gas 
analyzers and fire detection systems proposed for in-mine tests. 

15. P assive and Triggered Barrier Systems 

Objective : Develop and test passive and triggered barriers for the 
suppression of methane and coal dust explosions. Determine characteristics 
and effectiveness of barriers and extinguishants with tests conducted in 
single-and muliple-entry configurations. Determine optimum deployment 
of passive barrier systems on belt conveyor roadway for protection 
against coal dust explosion. 



16. Improved Fire Protection Hardware Demonstration of Surface 
Mine Equipment 

Objective : Develop and in-mine test improved automatic fire 
protection systems for use on surface mining equipment. Monitor 
protection systems currently installed in mines. Evaluate the response 
of fire sensors commonly used on surface vehicles. 



13 



17. Design Specifications for Combined Explosion-Proof Bulkheads and 
Water Seals 

Objective : Develop specifications for strength and water tightness 
for bulkheads and seals. Survey current practice and design a prototype 
bulkhead that is watertight, fireproof, and explosion-proof. Build a 
prototype bulkhead in the Experimental Mine and test for leakage, 
drainage, and ability to withstand a coal dust explosion. 



18. Develop Criteria and Methods for Determination of Compliance With 
Respect to Rock Dust in Coal Mines 

Objective : Develop criteria and methods for determining compliance 
with respect to rock dusting regulations in coal mines. Collect infor- 
mation on rock dusting practices. Recommend improved procedures by which 
MSHA inspectors may determine compliance with inerting regulations. 



19. Improve Design of Rock Dust Distribution for Return Airways 

Objective : Develop a more reliable and efficient equipment design 
for distributing inert dust in return aircourses and gob areas. 



20. Improved Mine Fire Protection Hardware 

Objective : Develop and in--mine test lower cost, more effective 
vehicle fire protection systems and underground fire sensors. Through 
cooperative agreements and small purchase contracts, expand the 
application of Bureau developed fire protection hardware to all classes 
of mining equipment. This is an ongoing project, with some systems 
currently undergoing in-mine validation testing. 



21. Fire and Explosion Properties of Oil Shale 

Objective : Define, by means of large-scale test, the explosibility 
limit of coarse oil shale dusts and fire spread rates of bulk material. 
Seek correlations between mine tests and laboratory research. These 
large-scale tests will provide an assessment of oil shale fire and 
explosion potential. 



Methane Control 



Program Objectives : To prevent the formation of flammable methane- 
air mixtures in underground workings through improved ventilation and 
procedures for degasifying the coalbed in advance of and during mining. 
To establish correlations between the geology of the coalbed and its gas 
content, and to use these to predict methane emission hazards. 



1A 



Fundamental Factors 



1. Influence of Geology on Occurrence and Emission of Methane in Coal 
Measures 

Objective : Continue research to develop accurate methods for pre- 
dicting methane concentrations in unworked coalbeds by establishing the 
geological structural conditions. Conduct geologic studies of proposed 
Bureau of Mines degasif ication drilling sites and of selected areas in 
the Book Cliffs coalfield, the Arkoma Basin, and deep Appalachian 
coalbeds. Determine the effect of greater depths and increased structural 
complexity on methane emission and degasif ication techniques. Determine 
the geologic association of gas reservoirs and source rocks in the 
Arkoma Basin to provide solutions to mining problems involving migration 
and retention of gas in the coalbeds. Assess the suitability of computer 
mapping techniques in predicting geologic trends that influence the 
occurrence and emission of methane in coalbeds. Continue to refine the 
direct method for determining the methane content of coalbeds. 



2. Prediction of Coalbed Discontinuities 

Objective : Define and document the geologic conditions that may 
control coalbed discontinuities and adversely affect underground mining 
operations and degasif ication of coalbeds ahead of mining. Investigate 
adapting existing statistical and data processing techniques to pre- 
diction of coalbed discontinuities and the probability of encountering 
such hazards at specific locations. Begin the studies on the Beckley 
coalbed in West Virginia and the Kittanning coalbeds of Pennsylvania, 
for which a substantial geologic data base has been established. 



Control in Advance of Mining 



3. Application of Vertical Borehole Degasif ication to Mine Safety 

Objective : Negotiate agreements for draining methane from large 
acreages of coal property in gassy coalbeds through vertical boreholes in 
advance of mining. Monitor the resulting contracts, obtain data on the 
degasif ication properties of the coals and on gas and water production, 
and analyze results. 



A. Use of Large-Diameter, Multiple-Purpose Borehole for Methane Control 

Objective : Continue monitoring methane production at the multi- 
purpose borehole. Conduct methane emission studies periodically in 
three south mains of the Federal No. 2 mine until the degasif ied zone 
is passed. Plug degasif ication holes before mining intersects them. 



15 



5. Use of Air Shafts for Degasification of Coalbeds in Advance of Mining 

Objective : Continue monitoring of gas and water production from 
the degasification holes at the bottom of the air shaft in the Beckley 
coalbed at the Maple Meadow mine. Plug the holes before their interception 
by mining. 



6. Investigation of Available Equipment for Directional Drilling of 
Coalbed Degasification Holes 

Objective : Test various types of rock to determine the most effec- 
tive bit design for drilling. Determine from available literature and 
meetings with engineering and sales personnel of various manufacturers 
the most effective drill bits, drilling assemblies, and drill pipe for 
drilling directional holes. Match suitable drilling rigs and mud 
pumps to the chosen drilling assemblies. 



Control During Mining 



7. Development of Control Technology Using Horizontal Boreholes 

Objective : Continue monitoring gas flows from the horizontal 
methane drainage holes at the Marianna No. 58 mine. Drill horizontal 
holes underground at the Beckley and Sunnyside mines and connect to 
underground piping and monitoring systems. Continue monitoring gas 
flows from the long horizontal holes drilled to intercept methane 
migration from virgin coal into the gob at Federal No. 2 mine. 



8. Study of Ventilation in Control of Methane 



Objective : Acquire European and other types of blowing tube 
diff users and evaluate them in underground operating mines. Conduct 
tests in a mine of Southern Utah Fuel to optimize a 7,000 cfm scrubber 
exhaust; tests will be made with exhaust primary ventilation and the 
exhaust duct at distances of 10 feet or greater. Prepare handook on 
stoppings. 



9. Study of the Use of Water Infusion To Control Methane 

Objective : Continue studies of problems with horizontal drilling 
and water infusion at the Jim Walter Resources No. 4 mine in the Mary 
Lee coalbed. Conduct study of integrating water infusion into the mining 
cycle in the Freeport coalbed if a site is available. 



16 



10. Gob Degasif ication From Underground Locations 

Obj ective : Monitor the gas flow during formation of the gob from 
the small-diameter holes that were drilled at various inclinations into 
the strata overlying a longwall panel at the Virginia Pocahontas No. 2 
mine in the Pocahontas No. 3 coalbed. Conduct another test to determine 
the feasibility of constructing a pipeline that will remain open and 
intact when used in gob areas to collect and remove methane. 



Ground Control 



Program Objective : To conceive, develop, demonstrate, and transfer 
technology that will present mine accidents attributable to falls of 
ground, outbursts, and slope failures. 



Premining Investigations 

1. Determination and Support of Geological Conditions Effecting Roof 
Instability in Underground Mines 

Objective : Conduct detailed geologic investigations of the Upper 
Kittanning coalbed in Somerset County, Pa. The results will be 
used to define specific geologic factors affecting roof instability in 
coal mines. Examine roof fall occurrences, define their causative factors, 
and develop regional geologic information for prediction of hazardous geo- 
logic features in the particular area. Ultimately, the geologic information 
shall be synthesized to produce practical guidelines for design and selection 
of roof support systems to effectively cope with unstable mine roofs. 

2. Acoustic/Electromagnetic Properties of Coal Measure Rocks 

Objective : Determine acoustic and electromagnetic properties of coal 
measure rocks in the major U.S. coalfields. Obtain drill core samples and 
perform property measurements in the laboratory, including acoustic core 
logging, dynamic elastic constants, acoustic impedence, attenuation factors, 
anisotropy coefficients, porosity, permeability, unixial strength, dielectric 
constant, dissipation factor, and effects of moisture and stress on the com- 
pressional wave velocity. Perform field determinations of lithologic and 
drilling conditions, rock quality, and geophysical logs at each drilling 
site. Statistically correlate the rock properties, compare the laboratory 
data with the field data, and identify potential utilization of the test 
data in geophysical investigations for mine design and hazard detection 
purposes. 



17 



3. Delineation of Abandoned Mine Workings With High-Resolution Seismic 
Techniques 

Objective : Develop high-resolution surface seismic technology for 
delineating the boundaries of abandoned underground mine workings. 
Conduct field tests at selected mine sites, some with known abandoned 
workings and others with suspected abandoned workings, to determine the 
optimum seismic techniques for delineating the boundaries of the 
workings. Verify the test results with the known subsurface conditions, 
or with drilling. Also, conduct frequency response versus signal input 
tests to establish optimum sensor/source parameters and to complement 
analytical techniques. 



4. Computerized Remote Sensing Techniques for Detection of Potential 
Hazards in Mine Areas 

Objective : Develop computerized data processing and interpretation 
techniques for detecting potentially hazardous geologic features in 
mining areas using the remote sensing imagery data made available by the 
Landsat Satellite. Obtain local and regional information on the 
subsurface geologic structures represented by the resulting geologic 
lineaments in selected areas, where other geologic and geophysical 
delineation of weakened rock underlying surface bodies of water will be 
conducted under companion contracts. Compare the remote sensing 
techniques and the overwater seismic survey methods, and incorporate the 
results of all equipment and detection technique developments, as well 
as data interpretation, into a report of investigations. 



5. Field Tests and Demonstrations of the Improved Redox Shallow Borehole 
Probe 

Objective : Evaluate the usefulness of the Bureau designed, Redox 
(reduction-oxidation) measurement instrument in detecting hazardous sub- 
surface areas, such as potential subsidence zones, methane pockets, burn 
area perimeters, and hydro thermal veins. Conduct field tests of the 
improved Redox borehole probe using shallow drill holes to determine the 
possibility of developing a quick and simple method for hazard detection 
from the surface. 



6. Quantitative Measurement of the Time-Dependent Structural Behavior 
of Coal Mine Roof Rocks 

Objective : Determine the time-dependent structural behavior of coal 
mine roof rocks in the laboratory for roof control planning and field 
implementation. Obtain roof rock samples from selected coal mines in 
the major U.S. coalfields, prepare test specimens, and perform laboratory 
testing to determine their porosity, absorption characteristics, and 
timedependent structural behavior under constant bending stress. 



18 



Develop the relationships to express the change of modulus of rigidity 
with respect to humidity, creep rate, strength reduction with time under 
various humidity levels, and stabilization period; and establish the 
relationship between strength variations and humidity fluctuations. 



7 . Delineation of Abandoned Mine Workings with Microwave Techniques 

Obj ective : Continue development and refinement of microwave radar 
sounding techniques for detecting and delineating abandoned mine 
workings and hazardous geologic features in metal and nonmetal mining 
areas. In conjunction with a companion contract, construct and test 
focused antenna systems for field applications, both above and below 
ground. Evaluate a focused antenna presently being improved under 
Bureau contract and identify its radiation field and interaction with 
mine voids and faults. Assemble an array of wide-frequency band dipoles 
for sharper radiation field, and analytically model a synthetic aperture 
radar radiation mode using field measurement with a currently operational 
dipole system. Construct and test a wide band antenna assembly for 
unfocused radiation to maximize target detection throughout the entire 
rock volume. Fabricate and test optical fiber data transmission lines, 
and investigate underground data telemetry. Upgrade the data enhancement 
capability of the present data processing system, measure the frequency- 
dependent constitutive parameters of rock, and improve the detection 
capabilities of available radar systems for deeper target resolution and 
greater range, up to 100 feet and beyond. 



Selection of Mining System and Mine Opening Design 

8. Coal Mine Single Entry Study 

Obj ective : Determine the structural competence and safety of a 
single-entry longwall coal mining system. Compare the single-entry 
system that uses a support-divider wall in the single entry to form a 
double (head and tail) gate for development and mining of longwall 
panels with the conventional double-entry or multiple-entry system, and 
evaluate the single-entry system that uses single entries as single 
(head or tail) gates. Continue in-mine monitoring of the existing test 
panels in Sunnyside, Utah, document the test data, develop guidelines 
for designing single-entry longwall mining panels and roof control 
plans, and prepare recommendations for the needed changes in health and 
safety standards and regulations. 



9. Application of Ground Control Exploration to the Design of 
Underground Coal Mines 

Objective : Test, evaluate, and demonstrate currently available 
ground control technologies in mine design and site investigations for 
their application to the development of new underground coal mines; and 
develop correlations between the ultrasonic energy transmission 



19 



characteristics of mine rocks and the rock stress distributions and 
other mine design parameters. Conduct dynamic and static core analysis 
of the core samples obtained from exploration drill holes, and also 
conduct insitu stress measurements in at least one new underground coal 
mine. Use the results for actual mine design and planning to evaluate 
the potential benefit of ground control. Design, fabricate, and 
evaluate a prototype borehole probe for insitu rock stress measurement 
based on the principle of ultrasonic birefringence in rock material. 



10. Determine Validity of Existing Blasting Proximity Criteria and 
Vibration Scaling Law 

Objective ; Determine the validity of previously established damage 
criteria and vibration levels relative to the proximity of surface 
blasting operations and underground coal mine openings. In conjunction 
with companion contract efforts and cooperative programs, acquire 
pertinent surface blasting and ground vibration data from different 
mining operations over a wide range of geologic and mining conditions 
for determination of the maximum variation in the resulting particle 
velocities in nearby underground mine structures. Compile and analyze 
the field data relative to amplitude, frequency spectra, geologic 
enviornment, mine opening configurations, blasting technique and 
blasting pattern, etc.; and develop a means of predicting safe distances 
between the surface and underground operations. A properly controlled 
blasting and measurement program may be used to assess the blasting 
effects and evaluate the damage criteria. 



11. Development and Implementation of Applications Engineering Strategies 
for Ground Control Research 

Objective : Collect and evaluate the products of mining research 
activities related to specific, real-world problems in the field of coal 
mine ground control. Define the range of real world problem areas where 
a need for Bureau assistance in engineering applications of research 
results exists, and develop the necessary strategies to insure that such 
assistance and research products are made available to the end users, 
including mine operators, equipment suppliers, Mine Safety and Health 
Administration, Office of Surface Mining, and other private and public 
sectors. The problem areas to be dealt with immediately are (1) 
collection and use of geologic information to impact mine layout and 
roof control plan development and (2) applicability of different types 
of roof bolting hard-ware to various geologic conditions. Based on the 
recommendations resulting from the companion contract effort in the 
development of a repository of coal mine ground control data, a program 
plan for establishing the systematic data collection, storage, and 
retrieval facility is to be finalized and its implementation initiated. 
The applications engineering strategies for this project will make use 
of various vehicles, such as: presentation and publication of technical 



20 



papers, delivery of short courses, distribution of educational and 
training material, conducting open industry briefing and/or work shops, 
and sponsoring in-mine demonstrations. 



12 . Operational Guidelines for Stress Measurement 

Objective : Improve the use and understanding of a variety of 
borehole devices for determination of the state of stresses in rock or 
rock properties. The instruments include vibrating wire stress gage, 
borehole deformation gage, cylindrical pressure cell, encapsulated 
borehole pressure cell. Continue to define errors that can be expected 
from the use of these bore-hole instruments, and establish operational 
guidelines for proper instruments and assess the errors involving 
borehole inclusions using the analysis method developed in FY 79; and 
modify the design of the existing vibrating wire stress gage to improve 
its performance and accuracy, if practical. 



13. Ground Control Manual for Planning Coal Mines 

Objective : Produce coal mine design manuals describing procedures 
that mining companies can follow step-by-step in planning new coal mines 
to provide safe ground control conditions. Complete and publish the 
design manual for room-and-pillar coal mines that was previously 
drafted. Write a second design manual describing: various techniques 
that may be used to determine structural and physical properties of mine 
rocks during the initial steps of exploratory drilling, planning, and 
development of a new coal mine; procedures and theories for designing 
safe mine openings and mine layouts using the rock properties; and case 
histories of mine planning and design practices. In conjunction with a 
companion contract and in cooperation with selected mining companies, 
develop, test, and demonstrate improved coal mine design techniques and 
procedures, thus insuring their practicality as well as safety and cost 
benefits . 



14. Design of Longwall Development Entries 

Objective : Develop guidelines and procedures for design of two- 
and three-entry systems for development of longwall mining panels. 
Compare the relative merits of the two systems regarding ground control 
aspects, given the structural properties of coal bed and surrounding 
strata. Continue to evaluate, by field measurements, the ground control 
performance of the two-and three-entry systems used for developing 
longwall panels at the York Canyon coal mine of Kaiser Steel Corp. 
near Raton, N. Mex. ; measure pertinent physical and structural 
properties of the coalbed, roof, and floor strata; and perform 
structural analyses to establish design and evaluation criteria for the 
longwall gateroad systems. Assess the effects of longwall face 
abatement pressures and face convergence on the gateroad stability, and 
evaluate the structural performance of chain pillars and cribs in the 
longwall panel during the panel development and retreat mining phases. 



21 



15. Prediction and Control of Rock Bursts and Failures in Mines 

Objective : Develop effective and reliable methods for predicting 
rock bursts and controlling burst prone stopes, adn apply these methods 
to a mine with burst prone stopes for verification of their usefulness 
in avoiding possible catastrophic structural instabilities. Complete 
the analyses of microseismic data obtained previously from the Galena 
Mine of American Smelting and Refining Co., Wallace, Idaho, to identify 
anomalous microseismic zones prior to rock bursts and to characterize 
microseismic activity from stressed and destressed zones. Find a new 
test mine and install instrumentation for rock burst monitoring, if 
continued monitoring in the Galena Mine is not justified. Investigate 
the technical and cost benefits of a digital microseismic monitoring 
system as compared to the present analog systems, and test the inclusion 
theory of rock failures using the field and laboratory data. Laboratory 
studies of other parameters, such as the electromagnetic field near 
the test specimen under loading to failure, will also be conducted 
with the aim of discovering the parameters that most reliably measure 
the relative stability of a rock structure. 

16. Inherently Safe Mining Method for Rock Bursts 

Objective : Demonstrations an underhand cut-and-fill mining method 
that is inherently safer than the overhand cut-and-fill mining method 
currently used by some deep mines with a history of rock bursts. In 
conjunction with a companion contract, efforts will continue to evaluate 
and demonstrate underhand stoping to control rock bursts in the 
Coeur d'Alene mining district of northern Idaho. Select a demonstration 
site, prepare an instrumentation plan, install and monitor the instru- 
mentation, and gather the rock burst data for engineering and safety 
analysis of the mining method. Discuss the test results with individual 
mining companies in the district, and determine the feasibility of 
recommending full-scale applications of the mining method to the mines 
to reduce rock burst potential. 



Roof Support Systems 

17. Comparative Laboratory Evaluation of Existing and Innovative Roof 
Bolt Elements 

Objective : Conduct comparative laboratory evaluation of existing 
and innovative roof bolt elements. Include full column and point 
anchored resin systems; novel systems such as fiberglass, reinforced 
resin, and wood-doweled reinforced resin; full column modified resin 
systems; and imperfectly installed resin systems. Compile a table 
listing lead versus deflection values in both shear and axial tension. 



22 



18. Demonstration of Methods to Control Shear Failure of "Cutter Type" 
Roof 

Objective : Demonstrate methods for controlling shear failure 
("cutter- type") and kettlebottoms, in coal mine roofs. Select and 
examine test sites. Design and install optimum support methods. Monitor 
resultant roof stability. 



19. Load Histories of Longwall Gateroads 

Objective ; Systematically gather, analyze, and quantify the infor- 
mation of gateroad loading histories in a retreat longwall entry roof 
supports. Select a minimum of three test sites in underground coal 
mines, where development of a longwall mining panel is to begin or in 
process, for instrumentation. Monitor the instruments continuously from 
the time of their installation until the longwall mining operation 
ceases in the test area, and analyze the resulting data of gateroad 
loadings and roof support load characteristics for reevaluation of the 
effectiveness and adequacy of the roof support systems being use at 
each test site. Prepare a detailed documentation of the rationale 
upon which the existing roof support plans were designed and recommend 
possible improvements to the roof support systems. 



20. Inorganic Grouts for Coal Mine Roof Bolts 

Objective : Develop and field test two practical systems for installing 
fully grouted roof bolts with inorganic grouts for coal mines. The two 
systems to be considered are a cartridge type system and a paste 
extrusion system. 

21. Determination of the Nature and Magnitude of In-Service Loadings 
on Longwall Face Supports 

Objective : Determine the nature and magnitude of in-service loading 
on longwall face supports. Design and fabricate load-detecting instruments. 
Develop data collection plan. Begin data collection. 



22. Concrete Crib Design and Testing 

Objective : Complete the field demonstration and evaluation of 
concrete cribs. Prepare final project report. 



23 



23. Modeling Roof Bolting Systems 

Objective : Develop statistically justifiable guidelines for roof 
reinforcement using mechanically anchored bolts, fully grouted bolts, and 
friction stabilizers. Compare and then describe the field conditions 
best suited to each method. Monitor construction of the full-scale 
roof bolt model system, complete shakedown tests, and establish operating 
procedures. Initiate test rig utilization, prepare milestone charts, and 
establish prioritization guidelines for test program — both for full-scale 
and %-scale trials. Establish analytical structural analysis methodology 
for test rig data utilization. Prepare report detailing utilization plans 



24. Ground Support Systems for Block Cave Mining 

Objective : Design and demonstrate improved methods of drift support 
at grizzly and haulage levels. Expand present test to include one 
complete grizzly level drift and a 100-foot test length of haulage 
drift at the San Manuel mine. 



25. Longhole Bolting Technique Development 

Objective : Develop a new expansion shell for longhole rock bolting 
for roof stability in metal and nonmetal mines. Conduct preliminary 
analysis of rock bolting parameters. Fabricate and test prototypes. 



Safe Support Installation and Protection at the Face 

26. Retreat Mining Methods 

Objective : Review and coordinate the results of existing retreat 
mining contracts. Conduct background and field studies on current 
retreat mining systems, in coal and metal/nonmetal mines. Incorporate 
these findings with computer simulation results of various retreat 
support systems to identify those research areas in retreat mining where 
a high probability of success might be realized. Define more accurately 
the various health and safety and production statistics associated with 
retreat mining. Apply the Underground Materials Handling Simulator to 
the Retreat Mining Support System previously developed. Collate infor- 
mation gained into a basis for an expanded program in retreat mining 
methods. 



24 



27 . Evaluate Support Wall Systems 

Obj ectlve : Determine the stability characteristics of various 
pack-wall materials and pack systems in place. Determine standardized 
tests required to establish materials characteristics, develop test 
program guidelines to determine the overall performance ranges of a 
pack, and establish the procedures, by laboratory and in-mine trials, 
necessary to evaluate pack competence. 



28. Determine Effects of Roof Bolt Installation Procedures on Mine 
Roof Stability 

Objective : Determine the effects of roof bolt installation proce- 
dures on mine roof stability. Develop suitable procedures for installing 
roof bolts with preselected bearing plate loads, and develop data collection 
procedures for evaluation of roof bolt performance and roof behavior. 
Select test mines, install test panels, monitor the instrumentation, 
and collect and analyze the field data. 



29 . Inorganic Grouts for Roof Bolts 

Objective : Develop and field test two practical systems for in- 
stalling fully grouted roof bolts with inorganic grout in metal and 
nonmetal mines. The two systems to be considered are a cartridge type 
system and a paste extrusion system. 



Hazard Detection and Monitoring Systems 

30. Automatic Roof Failure Warning Systems 

Objective : Develop a commercially practical, automatic roof fall 
warning system for use in underground coal mines, based on microseismic 
monitoring or rock noises. In conjunction with a companion contract, 
continue field trials of the existing experimental units in selected 
coal mines to establish a sufficient data base for determining adequate 
threshold levels and characteristic responses for prediction and warning 
of impending roof failures. Construct commercial prototype units, based 
on the designs completed in FY 79, and conducted in-mine testing of their 
performance under various roof fall conditions in active working places. 
Also develop data analysis techniques such as fast Fourier transforms to 
debug and improve the prototype units. 

31 . Laboratory and Field Study of Roof Failure Prediction in Mines 

Objective : Acquire knowledge of microseismic anomalies of mine rock 
prior to failure so that imminent roof failures in coal mines may be 
predicted with increased reliability. Determine in the laboratory the 



25 



causes of the time variation of microseismic precursory to rock fracture, 
and apply this knowledge in an operating coal mine for prediction of 
roof failures. Conduct field tests to investigate the changes in 
frequency and energy of seismic signals, and to determine the optimum 
geophone location and mounting procedures for proper detection of 
microseismic signals. Complete instrumentation in potentially unstable 
areas of the test mine, monitor one or more roof failures, reduce the 
collected data with the aid of computer, and analyze the data to define 
the necessary and sufficient conditions leading to imminent roof failures. 



32. Microseismic Monitoring of Coal Mine Entry Systems 

Objective : Determine the relative stability of various coal mine 
entry systems by means of microseismic monitoring. Monitor microseismic 
activity in the entries of an advancing longwall mining system using a 
packwall support at the Dutch Creek No. 1 mine of Mine-Continent Coal 
and Coke Company, Redstone, Colo., and compare the microseismic data with 
the roof activity information obtainable from conventional instrumentation 
with strain gages. Reduce and analyze the microseismic and strain gage 
data taken previously at the Sunnyside No. 1 mine of Kaiser Steel Corp., 
Sunnyside, Utah, and the data that will be taken at the Dutch Creek No. 1 
mine during FY 80, to determine similarity and/or dissimilarity in the 
structural stability among different longwall gateroad systems, support 
systems, mining systems, and geologic conditions. In conjunction with 
related projects in microseismic hazard detection technology, provide 
imput for the design of a standardized microseismic monitoring system 
for use by coal mine operators. 



33. Coal Mine Bounce and Outburst Studies 

Objective : Determine if microseismic techniques can be used to 
delineate where and when coal mine bounces and coal and gas outbursts 
are going to occur, and to establish the equipment and technology 
required for commercial application of these techniques. Effectiveness 
of coal bounce and outburst control techniques, such as volley firing, will 
also be evaluated. Continue the ongoing field tests at the Dutch Creek 
coal mines, Redstone, Colo., to verify the applicability and reliability 
of the microseismic monitoring system. Monitor two advancing longwall 
mining panels and one room-and-pillar mining panel. Try digital 
microseismic techniques to assess their effectiveness and usefulness in 
continuous collection and computer analysis of the data. Document the 
test results, and develop guidelines for monitoring and preventing coal 
bounce and outburst phenomena. 



26 

34 . Thermal Detection and Prediction of Coal Bumps 

Objective : Determine viability of the method for detecting incipient 
coal bumps based on measurement of the temperature changes caused by 
increased stresses in rock, and develop inexpensive techniques and 
equipment for coal bump prediction. Conduct laboratory tests of represen- 
tative rock samples to measure the physical and thermal properties 
necessary for this study, such as diffusivity, conductivity, thermal 
coefficients, compressive strength, and tensile strength. Select a site 
for full-scale field tests, install the necessary instrumentation at the 
test site, and measure the temperature changes in coal at potential bump 
locations. Analyze the laboratory and field data, and evaluate the 
thermal detection and coal bump detection techniques. 



35. Application of Rock Burst Technology 

Objective : Assess the positive as well as negative effects of the 
destressing methods presently used in the Coeur d'Alene mining district, 
Idaho, on rock burst control in the destressed stope and incidental 
structural stability problems in the adjacent stopes. Identify the 
seriousness of their resulting problems, and determine how a mine-wide 
microseismic monitoring system can best be used to allow mine personnel 
to assess their destressing program and techniques on a continuing 
basis. Examine recent improvements in the existing microseismic 
monitoring system, both hard-ware and software, and determine whether or 
not more improvements are necessary for commercial applications. 
Continue ongoing field tests in the Galena mine, and analyze the test 
data to establish more conclusive evidence on the potential of 
microseismic prediction of rock bursts. Configure the Automatic Rock 
Burst Monitor (RBM) as necessary, and provide proof of its rock burst 
prediction capability. Develop guidelines for rock burst prediction and 
control in mines. 



36. Slope Failure Detection 

Objective : Field test and improve a microseismic slope failure 
detection system that can be used in an open-pit mine to forewarn mine 
management of impending slope failure so that proper safety precautions 
can be taken. Continue field monitoring at the Morenci mine of Phelps 
Dodge Corp., Arizona, using the monitoring system completed in FY 79; 
and monitor an additional site at the nearby Metcalf mine, if necessary. 
Incorporate an error analysis program and a new source location program 
into the existing rock noise analysis program of the monitoring system. 



Mining and Minerals Processing Waste Stability 

37 . Alternatives to Present Coal Waste Disposal Methods 

Objective : Develop and demonstrate alternatives to present coal 
waste disposal methods that will result in safer and more environmentally 



27 



acceptable disposal techniques. In conjunction with companion contract 
efforts in coal waste dewatering and dry fine/coarse waste mixing, 
determine the most promising method and potential alternative methods of 
coal sludge dewatering at preparation plants and of mixing fine and 
coarse waste particles to form a stable waste material for embankment 
construction. Conduct laboratory tests to study accelerated drainage 
dewatering techniques and to determine erosion and weathering rates of 
various types of coal refuse for further investigation into erosion and 
weathering control methods. Design the optimum dewatering systems, and 
perform large-scale field tests, in cooperation with selected coal 
mines. 



38. Electrokinetic Consolidation of Coal Sludge 

Objective : Demonstrate the technical and economic feasibility of 
electrokinetic dewatering and consolidation of coal sludge to produce a 
stable waste material. Continue to conduct the ongoing field tests 
using the test facility constructed in FY 79 at the Moss No. 3 preparation 
plant of Clinchfield Coal Co., near Dante, Va. , under the existing 
cooperative agreement with the company. Evaluate the effectiveness and 
costs of treating old sludge taken from the pond and new sludge directly 
from the preparation plant. Also, conduct testing with several electrode 
systems installed in an old impoundment to dewater sludge in place. 
Document the field test results, and prepare reports and user's manuals 
for design, operation, and economic assessment of the treatment process 
and equipment . 



39. Factor of Safety/Risk Analysis in Tailings Embankment Design 

Objective : Apply operations research and statistical techniques to 
the design of minerals processing tailings dams. In conjunction with a 
companion contract effort in probabilistic modeling of tailings embankment 
design, establish a confidence interval or a level of uncertainty about 
the values of safety factor computed by traditional design formula. 
Review,- collate, and summarize currently available techniques for computing 
the factor of safety in tailings dam design; use risk analysis as a 
decision tool for differentiating between competitive dam designs; and 
make field examination of tailings embankments to verify the reliability 
of the embankment structures and their designed safety factor. 



Industrial-Type Hazards 

Program Objectives : To (1) limit the possibility of human error through 
training and worker-machine interfacing, (2) improve equipment design 
and controls, (3) detect and prevent failures of electric circuitry and 
hardware, (4) provide adequate lighting in working areas, (5) insure 
continuous and reliable communication between all underground and surface 
mine personnel, while providing continuous surveillance of the mine 
environment, and (6) improve safety in haulage and materials-handling 
operations. 



28 



Human Factors 

1. Standards for Equipment Design and Investigation of Improved 
Methods for Conducting Viable Off-the-Job Operator Training 

Objective : Develop standards for equipment design that will be used 
in modification of existing equipment and in the design of new equipment 
primarily for underground use, and investigate various improved methods 
for conducting viable off-the-job operation training. 



2. Foreign Literature Translation 

Objective : Translate selected articles concerning human factors 
research that are available in foreign literature. 



3 . Training Strategies To Achieve Effective Learning 

Objective : Assemble and evaluate literature pertaining to training 
strategies and their effectiveness. The project will be coordinated and 
reviewed with MSHA. 



Electrical 

4. Specification for Permissible Equipment 

Objective : Develop static electricity test for the proposed intrinsic 
safety regulations, evaluate a computer program for analyzing intrinsically 
safe circuits, and study pressure piling and its relevancy to mining 
explosion-proof enclosures. Continue to support MSHA on requested 
projects and assist Bureau contractors in understanding the requirements 
for permissible equipment and obtaining MSHA approval of equipment. 

5. Electrical Equipment Devices and Systems 

Objective : Evaluate commercially available devices and techniques 
for inspection, fault locating, and protection of electric power systems 
for applicability to mining. Conduct laboratory and field tests of 
apparatus and methods developed under contract, including cable fault 
locaters. Develop novel approaches to mining electrical problems. 
Sessions including hands-on experience with selected devices and techniques 
will be conducted for coal mining personnel. 



29 

Equipment 



6. Equipment Development 



Objective : Enlarge and update the surface rail test facility by- 
removing curves; evaluate innovative rail-mounted equipment developed 
under contract activities; and conduct additional experiments and testing 
of coupling and automatic brake designs. 



7. Development, Testing, and Demonstration of Improved Dragline 
Cable Removal Equipment and Techniques 

Objective : Design and fabricate advanced impact removal fixtures 
for dragline cable wedge removal. Hydraulic fixtures will also be 
investigated. Testing of the devices will be performed under laboratory 
and field conditions. 



8. Fire-Resistant Fluid (FRF) Compatibility and Limitations 

Objective : Investigate the limitations of fire-resistant fluids as 
related to safety problems they may cause in hydraulic system components 
and mining equipment . 



9. Inmine Testing of Collision Protection Systems for Large Mobile 
Mining Equipment 

Objective : Develop and inmine test prototype hardware that reduces 
the vehicle collision hazard in open pit mines. The prototype hardware 
will be put through inmine testing to develop the ruggedization necessary 
to insure the instrumentation will withstand the mining environment. 



Illumination 



10. Mine Illumination 



Objective : Evaluate specialized power supplies required to illuminate 
mining equipment that is energized by sources other than ac or 300-volt 
dc. Maintain and update the machine-mounted permissible illumination 
systems in use in the Bruceton Experimental Coal Mine. Investigate the 
illumination of surface mining equipment. 



llllll'HIIMIinHBIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIII 



30 

Nonemergency Communications 

11. Performance Standards and Systems Approach to Mine Monitoring 

Objective : Develop a goal-oriented systems approach to mine monitoring 
and develop and evaluate performance standards for monitoring equipment. 

12. Development of Underground Communication Systems 

Objective : Develop and field evaluate special systems and hardware 
for the purpose of improving in-mine and surface-to-underground communications, 

13. Mine Telemetry and Environmental Surveillance System 

Objective : Develop, install, and evaluate environmental monitoring 
systems for underground metal and nonmetal mines. Continue to develop 
systems for monitoring environmental conditions in coal mines. 

Haulage and Materials Handling 

14. Fatigue Testing of Wire Rope 

Objective : Conduct fatigue tests that can be used as a basis for 
wire rope retirement criteria. Conduct fatigue tests on wire rope to 
determine rope life at different loads and to determine when appropriate 
safety factors have been met. Recommendations on retirement criteria will 
be made on the basis of fatigue tests. Data will be used to improve 
retirement criteria standards, aid users in proper rope selection, aid 
MSHA safety regulations. 

15. Materials Handling Equipment Development 

Objective : Investigate methods by which various facets of materials 
handling activities can be made less human-labor intensive. Particular 
areas of interest would be the transfer and handling of machine components 
during maintenance activities, the handling of fall debris, and research 
in support of contractual efforts in this area. This effort will design 
and construct prototype devices to minimize the human handling of under- 
ground supplies. The devices will be evaluated in operating mines. 

16. Disabled Mine Vehicle Safety 

Objective : Evaluate the disabled vehicle steering problem. Design, 
fabricate, and in-mine test a portable hydraulic system prototype for one 
specific type of large haulage vehicle. Continue to investigate the 
adaptation of off-the-shelf sleep monitors to monitor driver alterness of 
large haulage vehicles. This program will also test improved vehicle 
ladder systems. 



31 



17. Improved Materials Handling Systems at Surface Facilities 

Objective : Investigate methods of materials handling for surface 
facilities to make them less human-labor intensive. Identify operations 
now performed by hand that could be automated to work better and safer. 
Point out work practices that could be improved or even eliminated. 
Demonstrate the use of machines to do hazardous tasks presently performed 
by man. 



Post-Disaster 

Program Objectives : To develop technology that will (1) enable survivors 
of a mine disaster to escape from the mine or to continue to survive 
while awaiting rescue by providing protection against toxic and/or 
oxygen-deficient atmospheres, (2) aid in the location of miners trapped 
underground, using seismic and electromagnetic means of communication, 
and (3) facilitate post-disaster rescue and recovery operations through 
surface monitoring of conditions underground, emergency communications, 
and mechanized transport and life-support equipment for mine reentry and 
rescue operations. 



Survival 

1. Development of Life Support Technology 

Objective : Investigate, evaluate, and futher develop advanced life 
support technology for use in coal mines for self — rescue and rescue 
team operations. 

Communications 

2. Trapped Miner Location and Communication 

Objective : Develop emergency detection and location systems for 
post-disaster rescue efforts, evaluate hardware for same, and provide 
technical assistance to contractors conducting field test programs. 

Explosives 

Program Objectives : To assess the problems associated with the safe 
and effective use of explosives in all types of mining activity; these 
include fixed explosives, blasting agents, blasting devices, and blasting 
accessories. To conduct fundamental studies of explosive behavior and 
apply the results in the development of new technology. To develop new 
and improved test procedures as new mining methods are introduced and 
new types of explosives are formulated. 



wwuiuiwwmw 



32 

Blasting Agents and Other Hazardous Chemicals 

1 . Permissible Explosive Evaluation and Research 

Objective : Explore and resolve problems associated with safe and 
effective use of underground coal mine explosives in gassy and dusty 
mines. The research program will include a study of the causes of 
misfires and deflagrations occasionally reported for permissible water 
gels. New formulations prepared by other Bureau personnel will be 
tested in the gallery; this supportive work is part of an effort to 
control the incendivity of water gels with chemical additives. Work 
will include testing new permissibles, field samples, and explosives 
involved in mine incidents. 

2. Development of New Schedule Tests and Standards 

Objective : Develop standards for permissible explosives, explosive 
devices, and blasting accessories, and develop test procedures and basic 
knowledge of explosive incendivity in support of the standards. Schedules 
and related tests will be developed for stemming devices and other 
explosive-actuated devices. The problems of (1) desensitization of 
water gel explosives by extreme temperatures and (2) dynamic desensitization 
leading to misfires will be investigated. In addition, the mechanisms 
if ignition of flammable atmospheres by shot firing will be investigated. 

3 . Hazards of Explosives and Explosive Devices 

Obj ective : Produce data, supply information, and make recommendat- 
ions relating to the sensitivity of explosives and initiating devices to 
impact, friction, thermal, and electrostatic stimuli. Optimum designs 
for antielectrostatic devices for electric detonators will be developed. 
Research for an ultrasafe detonator will continue applying results of 
antielectrostatic studies and incendivity studies from related projects. 
Sensitivity tests will be conducted in connection with investigations of 
misfire accidents. 

4 . Fire Hazards of Explosives and Blasting Agents 

Objective : Produce data in support of the development of standards 
for the storage and handling of explosives and blasting agents. Large- 
scale (field) burning tests of explosives and blasting agents will be 
conducted, based on information gathered from laboratory experiments. 
Laboratory-scale determinations of ignitibility , burning rate, sensiti- 
zation at elevated temperatures, and tendency to detonate during 
combustion will be continued for these explosives. Laboratory and field 
test results will be corretated, in order to provide a set of test 
procedures and standards for determining tendency to detonate. 






33 



5. Develop New Explosive Systems 

Objective : Develop safer and more efficient explosives for the 
mining industry. Evaluate basic sensitization processes in water gel 
explosives and blasting agents. Examine the effects of chemical species 
and degree of confinement on incendivity of permissible explosives. 



Detonation Phenomena 



6. Detonation Growth and Decay Investigation 

Objective : Develop, improve, and extend experimental techniques for 
characterizing explosives, blasting agents, and similar materials with 
regard to their hazard potential. Mechanisms of the development and 
decay of explosive reactions in explosives, blasting agents, and similar 
materials in order to enable the development of tests to provide more 
reliable indications of their potential hazards. 

7 . Detonation Theory Development 

Objective : Develop, improve and extend mathematical techniques to 
enable the prediction of hazards of explosives and related articles from 
their composition, structure, and laboratory tests and determinations. 
Mathematical coorelations will be derived between those properties of 
explosives, blasting agents, and other explosive substances which can be 
measured in the laboratory or calculated from the composition, and those 
properties which significantly affect safety such as sensitivity, energy 
release, tendency to deflagration-to-detonation, and incendivity. 



Systems Engineering 



Program Objectives : To operate and maintain underground research 
and test facilities for use in testing and demonstrating new procedures 
and equipment before they are field-tested in commercial mines. To 
participate processing health and safety standards. 



Test Facilities 



1. Operation of the Experimental Mine and Safety Research Coal Mine 

Objective : Maintain and operate the two mine facilities at Bruceton 
that are used for coal mine health and safety research problems. The 
underground mines must be maintained in safe and proper operating 
condition in order to conduct full-scale experiments on explosives, dust 



34 



suppression, roof control, ventilation, fire and explosion prevention 
and suppression, haulage safety, communications, mine surveillance, and 
any other facets of coal mine health and safety research. 



2. Operation of the Lake Lynn Experimental Test Facility 

Obj ective : Maintain and operate the full-scale underground multiple- 
entry facility and evaluate the effectiveness of various techniques 
developed for extinguishing coal dust explosions. Included in the 
testing are extinguishment hardware, ignition quenching devices, and 
passive and triggered barriers. These studies provide information on 
the velocity and length of flames, the velocity and pressure waves in 
advance of flame front, composition of gases at various stages of 
explosion, and other physical and chemical phenomena associated with 
gas and coal dust explosions. 



*rU.S. GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE: 1980-603-102/15 



INT.-BU.OF MINES, PGri., PA. 24547 






MMHi^i^H 



H 37 81 '* 



v^&m 



V 5a*V~ ^ .-- V'V -.a* V" *V.- 

^/ •«- V** -#te° \-/ ••»&[•- *w* ••$ 

4? « - 

•* ^ ... ^ 



**^ 



I". *b V* 






$ 



*V° V*^\/ V---V v*<^\/ %^-V V 









C>^n : ^M^° A><^ o^ 







A N 



*6 

,0* 






^ 



v »i\?- cv a? \l^L- 



«b *7*?7S a 

.,1" a. 









■7* 



<? d 



^b *^ s * A 

X3 V 



^^ 



<}5 ^ 



V »!••- cv a0 » ! 






A 






> v -!■•• c^ A,0 r ,>" 



A 



J** V 









v v 



,^ T 



^^ 






A> V .*", <^> ^ 



.^^ 






**b 



<> 



^ Y 



•I o 



"^1^ 





- V a* « V ^BV. ^ .^ /* 









,v 







;^V V*^V %^V \^\^ %™/ \ 







♦ c«5Svv«». .. ^ 





: ^ 



v^ 



TV A 

















A' 




o > 







.A •&■ 




% 



' ^ 



v*<y 











L « 



<* 'o . t 

y A 
o * , , , • , ^ 












^ 



4» 








